Oral and maxillofacial surgeons diagnose and manage patients with oral and maxillofacial region diseases. These may include cysts, benign and malignant tumors, soft tissue, and severe infections of the oral cavity and salivary glands. The reconstruction of the mouth and face following the removal of tumors represents the ability of the oral and maxillofacial surgeon to return patients to optimum levels of appearance and function.
A patient with the condition that is considered pathologic for the jaws can be divided into several categories:
Lesions of the Lips, Tongue, Palate, Cheeks
- White lesions
- Red lesions
- Pigmented lesions
- Cancers
Cysts and Tumors of the Jaws
- Benign cysts
- Benign tumors
- Malignancy
Salivary Gland Disease
- Stones
- Tumors
- Systemic disease
Systemic Diseases that Affect Oral Health
- Diabetes
- Seizures
- Parathyroid function
- Liver disease
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- Immune system malfunction
- Arthritis
What Does an Oral Pathologist Do?
If you or your dentist detect an abnormality, you may be referred to an oral and maxillofacial pathologist. They will take your medical history and perform a thorough oral examination, including oral cancer screening.
In some cases, a biopsy is taken. A biopsy is the surgical removal of a small piece of suspicious tissue for microscopic examination. Biopsies are taken in the office with local anesthesia and evaluated by oral pathologists. Your pathologist will schedule an appointment with you to go over the results.
Why Choose NewYork-Presbyterian for Oral Pathology/Oncology
At NewYork-Presbyterian, we offer exceptional dentistry and oral medical care. As our patient, you benefit from our dentists’ years of training and experience. We also provide dental clearance for cardiac procedures, head, and neck radiation, and stem cell transplants.
As a scientifically based hospital in partnership with two academic institutions, we are at the forefront of the latest treatments. Our dedication to improving dentistry and oral surgery extends to innovative research programs. We continue developing new techniques and therapies to enhance our patients’ quality of life.